The Samut Prakarn Province, also known as ‘Muang Pak Nam’ is located thirty kilometres south of Bangkok. Its history dates back to the Ayutthaya Period when it was used as a sea port for foreign ships carrying trade goods to and from Thailand. The mouth of the Chao Phraya River is located in Samut Prakan, and the river flows right through the province along with a crisscross of waterways. The scenic locale is covered in paddy fields and orchards growing tropical fruits.
Golfing enthusiasts will not want to miss out on the luxuries of Le Méridien Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Golf Resort and Spa, which includes access to the Summit Windmill Golf Course. The eighteen-hole course spans one hundred and sixty acres and is one of the best in Thailand. A fifteen minute drive from the resort will take you to one of the area’s oldest markets. The Bangplee Ancient Market is located inside the Bangpleeyainai Temple, which was constructed to commemorate King Naresuan the Great and his victory against Burma, freeing Siam from Burmese rule. The market lies along the banks of the Somrong Canal and promises a shopping experience with a difference. The Chinese trader community has occupied this location that was once known as the ‘Siri Sophon market’, for over one hundred and fifty years. The fruit and vegetable selection is mainly home grown and priced lower than local supermarkets. Clothes stalls offer interesting styles in bright colours. Street food is also available in abundance.
The market is open for business every evening from 4pm to around 8pm. If you are heading in from downtown, hop into a taxi at Udom Suk BTS Station and name your destination as Bangplee Nives. Look out for the arch that will tell you that you have arrived in the correct neighbourhood. Simply drive under it and down the road until you arrive at a T junction; Bangplee market awaits.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
